Sport News – In a groundbreaking move, the global governing body of track and field, World Athletics, has announced the introduction of mandatory DNA sex testing for all female athletes competing in international events. This decision makes track and field the first Olympic sport to implement such a requirement.
According to World Athletics’ president, Sebastian Coe, the new policy aims to protect the integrity of female sports and ensure a level playing field for all athletes. The DNA testing, which involves a non-invasive cheek swab or dry blood test, will be used to verify the sex of competitors.
This move comes amid an ongoing debate over eligibility rules in female sports, sparked by controversies surrounding transgender athletes and those with differences in sex development (DSD). World Athletics has previously banned transgender athletes from competing in women’s events and has introduced rules requiring athletes with DSD to undergo medical treatment to reduce their testosterone levels.
The new DNA testing policy has been met with both support and criticism. Human rights groups have expressed concerns that the tests could be invasive and discriminatory, while others argue that they are necessary to maintain the integrity of women’s sports.
The policy is set to be implemented in time for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September. Athletes who fail the DNA test will be barred from competing in women’s events.
This development is likely to have significant implications for the world of track and field and beyond, as the debate over eligibility rules in female sports continues to evolve.